Can I Install a Fuse Instead of Wiring a Trailer Breakaway Kit Directly to the Battery?
Updated 11/12/2025 | Published 11/05/2025
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Question:
Should a fuse be installed on the emergency break away emergency braking system, in lieu of direct wiring to the battery?
asked by: Ken B
Expert Reply:
Hey Ken. You'll want to use a 20 amp circuit breaker like item # 9506P when installing an emergency Trailer Breakaway Kit like item # 50-85-313. You do not want to use a fuse. Your vehicle's brake controller should already have one installed.
I have attached a wiring diagram below that will show you exactly how to install the Trailer Breakaway Kit w/ Charger item # 50-85-313.
What kind of trailer do you have?
(click to enlarge)
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Tekonsha OEM Replacement Vehicle Wiring Harness with 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Vehicle End Connector
- Powered Converter
- No Tow Package
- 7 Blade
- Plug and Lead
- Plug-In
- Visible
- Tekonsha
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Ken B.
11/10/2025
Thanks for the reply. My trailer is home made. I understand that the tow vehicle fuses and circuit breakers, will protect the wiring for everything connected to the tow vehicle, which is what I believe the wiring schematic shows. The wiring I was questioning was the hot wire from the breakaway battery to the breakaway switch and ultimately the electric brakes. I see the wiring schematic shows a small box where the blue and black hot wires connect. Not sure if this is just noting a connection or if that is a fuse, regardless, that is where I installed a 20Amp fuse, since there is no protection on that hot line to the brakes.